Recent changes in the population control policy and its future directions in Korea
Cho, N.H.; Seo, M.H.; Tan, B.A.
Pogon Sahoe Nonjip 10(2): 152-173
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 1226-0282 PMID: 12179763 Document Number: 375418
The total fertility rate (TFR) in Korea decreased from 6.0 to 1.6 over the period 1960-87. A national family planning program and socioeconomic development have played roles in this decline. Should this most recent TFR prevail, the nation's population will increase to 50.2 million by 2020, shifting to negative growth thereafter. Demographic aging and labor shortages will ensue. Future population policy should consider Korea's socioeconomic conditions and its burgeoning population in relation to the available land area, and aim to maintain a minimum positive population growth rate. In this context, this paper considers future population policy directions for Korea, acknowledging that its strategies and objectives must change. Postponing reaching the goal of zero population growth rate is suggested to allow a moderate population infusion of economically active individuals. These people will help facilitate greater economic development and work to improve the quality of life in Korea. Strengthened family planning/maternal-child health programs which encourage and support temporary contraceptive methods instead of sterilization will help to achieve this goal. Improving qualitative program aspects should be the center of attention in these programs. The paper also calls upon the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs to strengthen its research and evaluation capabilities.